Summary

Augustine of Hippo was one of the most important theologians and philosophers in Christianity. His works influenced the development of the early Church. He is considered a saint and doctor in both the Catholic and Anglican Churches. He introduced Neoplatonism to Christianity and established the idea of the Church as a “City of God” during the fall of Rome. He became the Bishop of Hippo and attacked what he perceived to be false teachings in his writings. Augustine openly criticized his contemporaries who challenged ideas like the role of reason in faith.

Biography

Augustine was educated in Carthage, where he established himself as a teacher of rhetoric and encountered Manichaeism, a philosophy based on the struggle between good and evil.

He took a position as an imperial professor in Milan. He believed he was positioned to possibly become a provincial governor. While this never happened, it brought Augustine into contact with Ambrose, the Bishop of Milan, who baptized him.

Following his baptism, he managed his family holdings and raised a son. Following his son’s death, Augustine worked in a series of clerical positions in Hippo, eventually serving as bishop. He proved to be a strong leader.

Augustine worked tirelessly to promote orthodox Christianity. Augustine’s rhetoric and persuasiveness was so powerful he began to attract many followers. Augustine showed the fire of a convert while maintaining the rational eye of a scholar and attacked those who urged blind faith.

His leadership was also demonstrated through his two major works. The first, Confessions (398), was a biographical and psychological account of his life, thoughts, and feelings – one of the earliest on record.

His second work, City of God, introduced key ideas to Christian theology, mainly that God has a plan that humans are not meant to understand and that God simultaneous exists in the past, the present, and the future. Written soon after the Visigoths sacked Rome, it was designed to help Romans understand their collapsing society in religious terms.

What Made Augustine of Hippo A leader?

Augustine’s use of Neoplatonism has led the philosophical world to better understandings of good and evil.

Augustine’s leadership came through his writings and rhetoric. His defense of orthodox Christianity and attacks upon Donatism and Manicheeism led to the foundation and support of the modern Catholic Church.

As a man who had pursued worldly success first, Augustine provided an example that continues to inspire Christians that they can change and live better lives.